Benefits of Solar Energy
Solar energy provides multiple advantages. Here are some highlights.
- Lowered energy bills: You can skip the added cost of grid-tied power by producing some electricity at home. Plus, many states provide net metering which can allow you to sell your unused energy back for credits on your bill.
- Better energy independence: Solar panel systems with energy storage systems function through power outages and emergencies, and you won't have to rely on your power company for your safety and well-being.
- Reduced carbon footprint: Using clean solar power reduces your dependence on conventional, less environmentally-friendly sources.
What Solar Incentives Are Available to Nampa Homeowners?
Idaho homeowners who decide on solar could qualify for rebates, tax credits, special financing and reimbursements. Here are just a few of the local incentive offerings.
Incentive Type: Loan Program
Website: oemr.idaho.govIncentive Amount:
Residential: $15,000
All others: $100,000
Incentive Type: Rebate Program
Website: idahofallsidaho.govIncentive Amount:
Air Source Heat Pump Conversion: Contact IFP
Air Source Heat Pump Conversion with Duct Sealing: contact IFP
Ground Source Heat Pump: $2,700-$3,150
Ductless Heat Pump: $720
Water Heater: $270-$450
Insulation (Attic, Floor, Wall): Varies, see program website for details
Windows: Varies, see program website for details
Incentive Type: Personal Tax Deduction
Incentive Amount:
40% in the first year; 20% per year for next three years
Incentive Type: Personal Tax Credit
Website: ecowatch.comIncentive Amount:
30% federal tax credit for systems placed in service after 12/31/2021 and before 01/01/2033. Good for: solar water heat, solar photovoltaics, biomass, geothermal heat pumps, wind (small), fuel cells using renewable fuels.
How To Choose the Best Solar Company in Nampa
The more informed your company investigation is, the better your solar system will ultimately work. Make your choice based on the following crucial aspects.
Licensing and Training
Idaho's Division of Building Safety recently began issuing solar photovoltaic contracting licenses. If it's a solar thermal system you're after, your installer must be a licensed plumbing contractor. You should also visit a company's website to learn about its private credentials. Two of the most prestigious are the PV Installation Professional and Solar Heating Installer certificates, awarded by the North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (NABCEP). Some companies don't publish this information online, so you should also ask your estimator about them.
Cost of Solar Panels in Nampa
Your photovoltaic panels' type will impact how much power you can produce. Monocrystalline panels are among the highest quality and perform the best but cost the most. Polycrystalline panels generate less, but they're a great traditional option for low budgets. Thin-film panels are excellent for non-traditional roof shapes and cost the least, but don't work well for large residential installations.
If you need to charge an electric vehicle (EV) or use your solar power in inclement weather, you can pay extra for accessories. By choosing the right components, you can make your panel array more productive and user-friendly. Not every solar provider provides these add-ons, so look for a company that sells them if it's crucial for you.
Most Nampa homeowners choose solar systems rated for five kilowatts (kW) of electrical capacity. These systems run about $17,300 to install, considering both materials and labor. You can find more specific solar cost information in the table.
Solar Panel Cost | Average Cost |
---|---|
Solar Monocrystalline | $1,113 |
Solar Polycrystalline | $868 |
Thin-Film | $507 |
Solar Battery | $712 |
Solar Home EV Charger | $2,671 |
Financing Solar Energy in Nampa
Solar providers offer multiple different financing options to increase your savings and lower your costs. Though some providers offer unique payment plans, the most common are power purchase agreements (PPAs), cash payments, solar leases and solar loans. We suggest paying with cash or using a solar loan for the best return on investment (ROI). Cash payments require a hefty sum up-front, but you’ll pay the least long-term by avoiding interest. You’ll also own your system and can apply for solar panel incentives to reduce your total costs. Solar loans are another solid option if you don’t want to make a big initial investment. You can pay for your system in monthly installments while still enjoying energy bill savings and solar incentives. However, you’ll spend more in total due to accruing interest. Solar leases allow you to pay a monthly rate to rent your panels, while a PPA lets you pay a variable rate based on only the energy you use. We generally don't recommend these options since you will not have ownership of your system and are disqualified from solar incentives, but they might be suitable in specific circumstances. We suggest working with a company that offers multiple financing options. Speak with each representative about what's available, and secure more than one estimate for the best odds of staying within your spending limits.
The table below lists the average payback periods for different capacities of solar systems in Nampa.
You are eligible for a 26% federal solar tax credit for new solar power systems until the year 2032. City and state officials and utility companies might also offer rebates, discounts, and unique financing solutions that could save you more.
Solar System Capacity | Estimated Payback period |
---|---|
1 kW | 2.4 years |
2 kW | 4.9 years |
5 kW | 12.1 years |
10 kW | 24.3 years |
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Frequently Asked Questions About Solar in Nampa
How much money could I save by going solar in Nampa?
Is solar energy widely available in Nampa?
Will solar energy systems raise my Nampa home price?
What is a Nampa solar panel's average lifespan?
How long does the photovoltaic installation process take?
What is the average payback period for Nampa solar panels?
What's the difference between a PPA and traditional financing?
In contrast, solar loans can come from specialty lenders, installer, local banks and the government. You'll need to pass a credit check to qualify for most of them. While the upfront costs are larger, and you'll be responsible for maintenance, you'll also have full ownership rights and can apply for many more benefits.
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